We Have Good News – Update On Klee

There’s nothing quite like starting your day at 4 AM with a little colonoscopy prep, right? That’s exactly how our morning began today. Klee had to chug the second half of her “magic potion,” a gallon jug of juice whose sole purpose is to clear the digestive battlefield. Being the supportive partner I am, I got up too, brewed myself a coffee, and then, in what can only be described as a moment of overachieving empathy (or sleep-deprived bad judgment), I reached for a cup of prune juice to ease my tiny bout with morning constipation. Why? Solidarity? Curiosity? Let’s go with “too early to think.”

This might be TMI, but between Klee’s marathon with the prep solution and my own questionable beverage choice, let’s say this morning turned into an interesting symphony of, well, activity. Hey, it’s all part of the real-life charm we like to share with you. Sorry not sorry.

By 7:30 AM, with the front of the house freshly shoveled (by yours truly) to avoid any snow-related mishaps, we hopped in the car and headed to Meadville Hospital. Normally a 45-minute drive, the snow decided to extend that journey to just over an hour. If you’re imagining us cruising serenely through a winter wonderland, stop. Picture instead two people nervously watching the clock like hawks, hoping there’d be a bathroom nearby if the “magic potion” and “poor beverage choice” still had unfinished business.

Despite the nerves, the weather, and desperately “holding it”, we made it to the hospital without incident. The staff was wonderful, and before long, Klee was prepped for her first experience going under anesthesia. For those curious, her feedback on the experience was enthusiastic and brief: “Wow, this is…” followed by an immediate plunge into dreamland.

After the procedure, the doctor gave me the update: Klee’s colon is still 90% inflamed but healing. There were no signs of anything cancerous, which was a massive relief. He took a biopsy and scheduled additional tests, but the path forward seems promising. The best part of the day? Watching Klee’s face light up as she emerged from the anesthesia, clutching a chocolate pudding cup like it was the greatest treasure on earth. Her joy was contagious—chocolate pudding has never been so celebrated.

On our way home, we picked up some supplies just in time for another round of heavy snow. I’d like to point out the irony here: after my early-morning shoveling efforts, the snow returned in full force. I’m trying to laugh about it, but really, snow? Really?

Back at home, I made Klee some soup—her first real meal after a marathon of clear liquids. Watching her enjoy it was like watching someone rediscover the joy of food. The sparkle in her eyes is something I’ve missed, and seeing her feel a little better—even if it’s a small step—means everything.

Tonight, we’re taking it easy. I’ve decided to take the day off and not get in the studio. Dinner is happening early, and for the first time, we’re watching The Sound of Music together. (Yes, she’s never seen it, and yes, she’s very excited!) It’s been a long day, but it’s ending on a warm, cozy note.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in worry, frustration, or the uncertainty of what’s ahead, but today was a reminder to pause and notice the beauty in the now. The way Klee’s face lit up at the thought of food. The shared giggle when we both realized prune juice solidarity was maybe not the wisest idea. The simple comfort of planning a cozy evening with a classic movie. These moments might seem small, but they’re the ones that carry us through the bigger challenges.

Life will always have its curveballs, whether it’s a health scare, a snowstorm, or just the daily grind. But it’s in these moments of connection and humor that we find our strength. Even on the hard days, there’s so much to be grateful for—each laugh, each hug, each shared glance that says, We’ve got this.

To everyone who has sent us love and support, thank you. It’s hard to put into words how much it means to us, especially during times like this. We’ll keep you posted on Klee’s progress, we should know more in 7 days. And to those waiting on jewelry orders, we appreciate your patience. Klee is eager to get back in the studio, but her health is not there yet.

Until then, we’re taking things one step (and one pudding cup. Yes, we bought some on the way home) at a time. Thanks for being part of our journey, and here’s hoping for fewer snowstorms and more good news ahead.